What Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Your Next Big Obsession
What Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Your Next Big Obsession
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible be there earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. It is important to remember that if you do not feel electric motor wheel chair comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.